Techguy - I bought some very high quality PR link info here - http://backlinks.theleadsource.net I had to do the work but the links are gold!
I used to use Comment Katuna or (something like that, cant remember), it searches social networking sites that are dofollow and lets you post on them Make sure your posts are relevant and helpful though, or they'll be removed
Buying links? I don't go for buying links! There are lots of sites that offers free links.. Just be patient in looking for them... Patience is the key to success!..
Using automated linkbuilding tools is a total no no. Automated tools often build crappy links. Do it manually!
These are not really tools, but rather resources to get links. I like to use www.linkmarket.com and Free Traffic System< I know it has a horrible name, but what it does is submit your article with a max of two links and after manual approval to thirty blogs that you pick. I have used it with good results.
I too bought links from http://backlinks.theleadsource.net. But I have to wait till next PR to see how it works. Any how, it is really a fantastic asset for a new blog.